The 2023 Winter Graduation Ceremony of the University of Nottingham Ningbo China (UNNC) took place at the D.H. Lawrence Auditorium on 11 November. Six undergraduate, 296 master's, and five PhD students from the Nottingham University Business School China (NUBS China) celebrated the completion of their studies.
The ceremony was presided over by Professor Nick Miles, Provost of UNNC. His opening speech expressed his warmest congratulations and heartfelt expectations for the graduates: "During your studies at UNNC, you have grown your ability to consider new ideas with an open mind, to think critically and carefully, and engage with the world with a sense of pride. These abilities will be demonstrated to have significant values in your future development. You, in this room today, are the future. You will make the world what it will be. Please follow your instincts and curiosity wherever they lead, and continue to broaden your knowledge by reading as much as possible. Furthermore, be bold when trying and taking risks. Do not let the fear of failure stop your stride when going forward. Today it is an honour to stand here knowing the potential that is in this room. So please, feel free to enjoy the beginning of the next stage of your life!"
Professor Kok Wei Khong, Dean of NUBS China, announced the list of graduates. They were also greeted by Professor Chee Wei Phang, Head of Department of Entrepreneurship, Marketing and Management Systems, Professor in Marketing and Information Systems.
Qingwei Wang, a student representative, who studied for an MSc in International Management (Marketing), delivered a speech. She said, "In my life, UNNC has provided me great tolerance and freedom. Embracing Professor Fujia Yang's philosophy of liberal arts education, UNNC encourages students to explore across disciplines in pursuit of their own passions. This philosophy gives me countless opportunities to make mistakes which in the end helped me find the answers in my heart. For me, UNNC represents a sanctuary of dreams, where every aspiration is respected and supported."
After the ceremony, NUBS China also hosted a Farewell Fair for the graduates. On this special night, teachers and students returned once again to the familiar classrooms, which were once places for their quest for knowledge and discussion, now filled with joy and emotion. Everyone was reminiscing about the past while also full of expectations for the future.
Words from graduates
Hanwei Wang, MSc International Management
"The curriculum of the International Management programme allows students to choose courses that align with their development goals. This programme gave me insight into various management areas, such as entrepreneurship growth, financial management and human resources. The Research Methods course was beneficial in developing my critical thinking skills, deepening my understanding of management research methodologies and allowing me to gradually discover the unique appeal of management research. Eventually, I decided to pursue a doctoral degree at UNNC."
Robert Neumann, MSc International Management (Business Analytics)
"Though I am not a traditional student (this is my second master's degree) I wholeheartedly enjoyed my time here at UNNC. I was quite amazed by the quality of equipment in the computer rooms and that the professors were passionate about what they taught. I am a firm believer in participative learning and most professors were receptive to questions and many of them even encouraged the students to actively participate. Overall, I feel that I have learned a lot here, and the knowledge obtained will be invaluable for my future direction, where ever it may lead."
Guoning Ding, MSc Finance and Investment
"During my year at UNNC, I experienced deeply the University’s rich academic and pleasant campus environment. The Finance and Investment programme boasts a strong and responsible faculty team. I would like to extend my special thanks to the programme director, Professor Xiaogang Bi, for arranging various training sessions in writing papers and financial industry skills. My sincere gratitude also goes to my thesis advisor, Professor Ying Jiang, and the other professors at the School for providing comprehensive support and encouragement. Their guidance not only helped me achieve significant academic accomplishments but also inspired me to forge ahead on my life's journey. Lastly, I would like to express my gratitude once again to the University and NUBS China for offering us such an outstanding platform for learning and personal growth."
Yifan Cheng, MSc International Business (Supply Chain Management)
"The Supply Chain Management programme focuses on optimising product flow and delivery to enhance efficiency and reduce costs. Comprising MIT courses introduced by the NISCI and UNNC curriculum, this programme equips students with essential knowledge. Proficiency in utilising tools like Python, CPLEX and Vensim to find optimal solutions and to create/test system dynamics models is crucial in today's digital era and we were well-trained in these areas. Furthermore, every project and group assignment cultivated problem-solving abilities and highlighted the significance of teamwork. Although I've completed my studies, my pursuit of knowledge never ceases; continuous progress is essential to adapt to our ever-changing world. I look forward to applying what I've learned in the supply chain programme to contribute to the development of companies and the industry."
Sen Chen, MSc Entrepreneurship and Innovation Management
"One of the best choices I've ever made and a truly memorable period of my life was attending UNNC. For me, the professors' professionalism and rigorous academic standards in the classroom opened another door. The combination of theory and practice in the EIM programme is a valuable asset that I will be able to adapt to my future career and entrepreneurial endeavours."
Lingyi Wang, MSc International Business
"My experience of studying and living at UNNC has contributed significantly to my personal growth. Each student here possesses unique strengths and talents, ranging from those with exceptional academic performance at top-tier 985 universities in China, to accomplished professionals thriving in various fields, and well-rounded individuals who excel in both academics and extracurricular activities. I have gained valuable insights from each of them. Moreover, I am incredibly grateful for UNNC's MSc International Business programme. As my undergraduate degree was not in business, this programme offers comprehensive bridging courses tailored for students with non-business backgrounds, allowing me to smoothly transition to the field of business, and helping me to identify my future research direction. After graduation, I will continue my academic journey towards a PhD programme, and in the meantime, I will apply the knowledge and skills I have acquired to my own career path. UNNC has been the starting point of my voyage, and I will always remain appreciative of the support and strength it has provided me."
Congratulations, class of 2023! The end of the journey is the starting point of a new one. May you continue to advance confidently and embrace what the future holds!